What are the different types of meditation and which one will benefit me the most?
What are the different types of meditation and which one will benefit me the most?
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Meditation is incredibly powerful and hugely beneficial if practised correctly and on a regular basis but with so many different types to choose from how do you know which the right style is for you? Although all the types of meditation offer similar benefits including improved clarity and focus, increased production, relief from Stress and Anxiety and improved self-confidence and compassion they are all very different in their own individual style. It is important to realise that not all meditation styles will suit everyone as we all have different mind sets in what we are hoping to achieve, for this reason it is advisable to try different types to see which is the most comfortable fit for your own individual needs and what you feel encouraged to continue to practice.
So what are the most popular types and how do I practice them?
The first is mindfulness, this is the most popular meditation technique in the West, originating from Buddhism and combines practising concentration with awareness whilst you focus on a particular event occurring such as a kettle boiling, a tree moving in the wind or an object, mindfulness involves paying attention to your thoughts and feelings but not judging them, simply observing whilst you become aware of any patterns occurring. This style of meditation is ideal for a beginner so they can learn how to open the mind, this type of meditation can be particularly helpful for those who have trouble staying present as it helps to refocus your attention away from the past or future and instead places the focus on the present and current time.
Focussed meditation also involves staying present but uses the senses to focus the mind, for example through counting, listening to music, looking at a candle or smelling essential oils. As this type of meditation places the attention on one particular thing it can be beneficial for those who may have problems focussing and quietening the mind.
Movement meditation is as the name suggests practicing whilst the body is in motion, examples of this can be yoga, walking, gardening or Tao chi. This type of meditation is suited to those who find it difficult to be still and find it more therapeutic to keep moving as that is what guides them to find inner balance.
Transcendental meditation uses a mantra or a series of words which are particularly relevant and resonate personally to the person practising to provide focus. It is ideal for those who enjoy structure and a sense of order in their lives as the words which are meditated upon become sacred and help to create manifestation for positive change.
Zen meditation has Buddhist disciplines and is one of the most ancient practices. The breath and mind are observed as answers can be found to deep rooted questions which helps to give clarity and insight to find inner peace .This meditation would benefit anyone who is intrigued into the power of the mind as it can help provide the necessary tools for enabling increased understanding and awareness.
Progressive meditation also known as body scan meditation is as the name suggests a form of providing complete relaxation in the body through tightening then relaxing various parts individually, often starting at the toes and working up to the face, one muscle group at a time. This style of meditation often follows an exercise class as a way of checking back into the body, it is a popular way to help relax prior to sleep and can therefore be particularly beneficial for those suffering from Insomnia.
Loving Kindness meditation is my personal favourite as it places the focus on opening the heart and encourages you to feel a sense of unconditional love for every person that you meet including those that may have caused you pain previously and is therefore very healing and soothing as it encourages forgiveness to heal any trauma or pain experienced previously. Feelings of good will are encouraged with the focus that the more you are able to love yourself and others the more love you will receive back. Through repeating the same statements to those who you love but also those who have caused you pain it is possible to open the heart to encourage forgiveness and healing.
Meditation is practised all over the world by different faiths and nationalities, why not try it for yourself so you too can learn to fully embrace all the benefits, you will not regret it.
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